Ingredients
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3 large egg yolks
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and hot
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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Pinch of cayenne pepper or white pepper
For the Eggs Benedict:
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4 English muffins, split and toasted
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8 large eggs (for poaching)
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8 slices of Canadian bacon, ham, or smoked salmon
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Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
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Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
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Make the Hollandaise Sauce
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In a heatproof bowl or blender, whisk/blend egg yolks and lemon juice until pale and thickened.
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Slowly drizzle in hot melted butter while blending until the sauce is creamy and emulsified.
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Season with salt and cayenne. Keep warm over very low heat or in a thermos.
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Poach the Eggs
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Fill a large saucepan with about 3 inches of water and bring to a gentle simmer (tiny bubbles, not a rapid boil).
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Crack each egg into a small bowl, then carefully slide it into the water.
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Poach for 3–4 minutes until whites are set and yolks are still runny. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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Prepare the Base
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Toast English muffins until golden brown.
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Lightly sear Canadian bacon or warm smoked salmon slices in a skillet if desired.
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Assemble the Eggs Benedict
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Place a slice of ham or salmon on each muffin half.
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Top with a poached egg.
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Spoon warm hollandaise sauce generously over the egg.
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Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
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Notes
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Poaching Perfection: Add a splash of vinegar to the water to help the egg whites set neatly.
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Sauce Shortcut: You can use an immersion blender for a foolproof hollandaise in under 2 minutes.
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Variations: Swap ham for sautéed spinach (Eggs Florentine) or use smoked salmon for a luxe twist.
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Serving Suggestion: Pair with a light arugula salad or crispy hash browns for a full brunch spread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Poaching, Blending (for sauce)
- Cuisine: American, French-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian